Food supplements intake among gymgoers

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this study is to investigate food supplement intake among gym-goers. Design/methodology/approach A cross-sectional study, using a validated questionnaire, was conducted. All participants were gym-goers who voluntarily enrolled from eight selected gyms in Perugia. A multivariate regression analysis was performed. Findings In our sample, 44.9per cent (n = 57) of participants consumed dietary supplements, at least once a week, with no association with sex (p = 0.5) and educational level (p = 0.4). Supplements intake was statistically significant and associated with very low intake of mineral water (p = 0.01), diet specific for fitness programmes (p < 0.01), information about nutrition from personal trainers (p < 0.01), frequency of physical activity (p = 0.01), society’s attention to nutrition (p = 0.04) and marginally with frequency of weigh control (p = 0.05). Originality/value Food supplements intake seems to be extensively used among gym-goers, and it seems related to information about nutrition from personal trainers. However, specialized personnel, such as dietitian or nutritionist, should supervise supplements intake.